Yangon, Myanmar, Monday 28 April 2025 – Two young officers from the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN), Lieutenant Junior Grade Sylvester Cyrillyond bin Liming, RBN, and Lieutenant Junior Grade Rofii Ridhwan bin Mohamad, RBN, represented the RBN at the 12th ASEAN Navy Young Officers Interaction (ANYOI), held from 28 April to 1 May 2025 in Yangon, Myanmar. Hosted by the Myanmar Navy, the event brought together junior naval officers from ASEAN member states to foster regional cooperation, professional development, and camaraderie among future naval leaders.
The four-day program commenced with a welcoming reception and ice-breaking session at the Lotte Hotel in Yangon. Participants engaged in courtesy calls with senior Myanmar Navy officials, including Vice Admiral Aye Min Htwe, Chief of Staff of the Myanmar Navy, and Captain Khun Aung Kyaw, Deputy Commander of the Naval Training Command.
A key highlight of the event was a seminar where each ASEAN navy presented on the theme “Cooperative Teamwork: Harmony to Peace & Regional Safety.” These presentations facilitated the exchange of ideas and best practices in maritime security and cooperation.
Participants also took part in team-building activities, including a dragon boat race and sharpie-class sailing competition at the Myanmar Navy’s Rowing & Yachting Club. Visits to naval facilities, such as the No. 3 and No. 4 Naval Jetties and the 1st Fleet, provided insights into Myanmar’s naval capabilities. Attendees toured vessels including Fast Attack Crafts 271 and 276, and the frigate UMS King Sin Phyu Shin (F-14). They also experienced the Damage Control Simulator at the Naval Training Command.
Cultural excursions to landmarks like the Shwedagon Pagoda, Gyoke Market, and Junction City offered participants a glimpse into Myanmar’s rich heritage. The event concluded with a farewell dinner featuring a team-building session and a magic show, hosted by Captain Khun Aung Kyaw.
The RBN officers’ participation in ANYOI 2025 underscores Brunei Darussalam’s commitment to regional maritime collaboration and the professional growth of its naval personnel. Such engagements are pivotal in strengthening ties among ASEAN navies and promoting peace and stability in the region.
